I heard a child laugh the other day
His whole body quaked till it gave way
Lying on his back smiling at the sky
I still heard his laugh when he was out of sight
Like after a sumptuous meal
I felt content and sated
So calm and so warm
Moved on silently elated
I heard a couple argue everything
Uttered every word with deadly aim
Neither was trying to understand
Rather to destroy or at least maim
No matter what they said
You could only hear hatred
No matter what one said
It was endlessly debated
Time gives us choice
Looking for a friend
Or seeking confrontation
Support and defend
Or spout forth condemnation
We can show love
Yet keep high expectations
We can give love
Without us and thems
Life gives us a voice
Give each other what we need
Our support and validation
We can befriend
Without choosing sides
We can live love
With calm determination
We can give love
And love being alive